Furnace Hot-Surface Ignitors

Furnace hot surface ignitors are found on most modern furnaces to light the gas flames upon unit start-up. Electricity passes through the Silicon Carbide or the newer Silicon Nitride ignitor and makes it glow red hot. Operating under normal conditions a hot surface ignitor will last for 3 to 5 years (Silicone Nitride lasts about twice as long). During that time ignitors will eventually crack and need to be replaced. Like a light bulb, they are a regular replacement item. Most ignitors are interchangeable as long as they fit in the furnace space provided.

Select your ignitor by looking at the one you have, and comparing it to the photos of ignitors here; select the one most similar. Also, you can use our easy chart to assist you. If when selecting your replacement hot surface ignitor you don't find the exact base and connector combination, keep in mind that most ignitors include ceramic wire nuts to adapt. (Please note that ignitors are very fragile and can easily break during installation if not handled carefully.)